Diane Anderson
Name: Diane Anderson
Public Office Sought: Dakota County Commissioner - District 3
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 651-688-9461
Website: Dianeforcc.org
Twitter Handle:
Facebook Page: @DianeForCC
Candidate Bio
Diane Anderson is married and has two adult sons. She has been an Eagan homeowner for 31 years. Diane has a B.S. in Housing, from the University of Minnesota.
Diane is a former small business owner and mediator. Diane worked in Mortgage business for twelve years. Diane has also been a volunteer advocate at state legislature for 29 years, working with both parties to draft and pass legislation. Diane has long-standing relationships with state legislators from both parties and a proven ability to work effectively with all political affiliations. Diane served on several state task forces and a Supreme Court Task Force.
Diane served as State Representative. Served on: Health and Human Services Finance, Commerce & Regulatory Reform, and Judiciary Policy & Finance
As a State Representative, Diane gained knowledge and experience regarding community services programs, health care, mental illness, group homes and homelessness. She worked on obtaining funding for mental health issues and homelessness. Whenever possible we should prevent homelessness.
While in office, Diane helped pass a major package of tax reforms to improve job growth, including an end to the statewide business property tax, reduced regulations, and streamlined the business permit process, to help small businesses.
Why are you running for this seat?
As a former state legislator, I know that government must work hard to keep taxes low, avoid new regulations and unfunded mandates on business in order to have a thriving jobs market. I have a demonstrated track record as a strong, proactive leader, and advocate. I care about people and making sure government is responsive to their concerns. I care about what is happening to our economy and empathize with the people who are unemployed. I have experience as a State Representative and knowledge of community services programs. I will strive to bring transparency to the County Board meetings so you will know how your dollars are being spent. Dakota County needs to remain a great and affordable place to live, work and play.
What is the biggest challenge facing your district and how would you address it?
The biggest challenge is the need to mitigate the impacts of the COVID-19 virus on our economy, jobs, businesses and the elderly. This will require wise and efficient leadership. The public is fearful of the virus, but our businesses need sound information so they can react properly to help keep their businesses open and their employees employed.
My experience working on the Health & Human Services Committee in the State House and working on mental health issues will help in working with our county public health staff to make sure we find the balance in fighting the virus and keeping businesses and the economy open.
I understand that many business owners are facing an unprecedented challenge to their livelihoods and for many their life savings that they have invested in their businesses. It is key that we support them by using CARES Act money for the Dakota County Small Business Relief Program. The best way to support employers and jobs is focus our resources on keeping the ones we already have.
People are experiencing mental illness and anxiety due to the stresses brought about by the pandemic and government’s reaction to it. There is a growing problem with people committing suicide as citizens become isolated or lose their jobs or business.
In these uncertain times, we need a leader who will make sure the county continues to deliver the more than 200 services to the residents of Dakota County. I want to ensure the successful delivery of services with wise spending of your tax dollars. As we approach probable budget shortfalls, we need to find effective ways to continue the services and not shut them down.
The largest percentage of deaths has been with the elderly. I want to make sure we keep people safe and protect the safety of our seniors by stopping the spread of the COVID-19 virus in the nursing homes and long term care facilities.
What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing Dakota County as a whole and how would you address it?
The biggest challenge facing the Dakota County board is how to estimate the impact of the COVID-19 virus on the county budget regarding income from property taxes and increases in expenses relating to the virus. It is unknown what the effects to the Dakota County budget will be due to the COVID-19 virus. It is unknown how much revenue will be lost due to the closure of businesses and a reduction in property tax revenues from commercial properties and apartments. It is unknown how much the tax base is going to change in the future. It is unknown how many people will continue to experience unemployment and will be forced out of where they live. Many people may continue to work from home so there will be less usage of commercial properties. There will at the same time be a higher demand for county services. It is unknown how much money Dakota County will receive in additional funding from the state and federal government to help pay for expenses related to the virus. We need to make sure we are not over spending and do not increase the tax levy.
The Dakota County board also needs to improve public access to the county board meetings and provide more transparency. As your County Commissioner, I will ensure government is responsive to the citizens in Dakota County. You can count on me to fight for you and our common concerns. I value your input and will listen to your issues.
What would be your top three priorities if elected to the Dakota County Board of Commissioners?
Should county government be actively involved in attracting and retaining jobs? Why or why not? If yes, please describe the role for the county in this process.
Yes. There are many benefits that thriving and growing businesses bring to Dakota County to help provide a strong community. County government can best help attract new businesses and retain our current businesses and jobs by keeping taxes low on commercial property. We have attractive parks and trails as well as a strong library system that help attract business interests. We should not however raise property taxes just to give tax breaks to new businesses and have government pick winners and losers.
We need to ensure our next commissioner does not come with the attitude that business can just absorb new taxes and regulations. I have a record of opposing both. At the same time it is important to marshal current resources to help provide workforce housing so that employers will have a pool of job candidates who can afford to live in the immediate area. Dakota County can also make sure we have an efficient highway system with the best roads and infrastructure for our business transportation needs.
What role should county government play in economic development, and how should the county work with partner organizations?
Dakota County needs to continue its status as the metro county with the lowest property taxes per capita. The county should continue to partner with state agencies and local governments to attract new business and more importantly to remove impediments to the growth of existing businesses. It is important to work together on our transit needs to provide improvements in our road and bridge infrastructure which are also an important part of our economic growth. It is important for the county to work with the cities, state, and federal government to make sure there is not duplication of services to keep expenses down. I work well with state and local officials. My long-standing relationships with state legislators from both parties and ability to work effectively with all political affiliations will be a valuable asset.
What do you believe are the most essential services provided by county government?
There are many essential services that the county provides. At this critical time the county should focus on public safety and public health issues. Maintaining the county parks and trails, providing an efficient transportation system, and workforce housing are also high priorities. It is essential for the county to maintain a high quality of life.
Are there any services that the county does not provide that you believe it should?
No. At this critical time when revenues are shrinking and expenses are growing, I think we need to focus on current programs and priorities. Ensuring our public health response to the Covid-19 virus and public safety needs to be our priorities.
Are there any services currently provided by the county that you believe should be cut back or eliminated?
I think was we enter into the new budget planning cycle we will need to thoughtfully consider all of our spending. That said, much of what the county does is to administer programs funded and mandated by the state. It is always good to reexamine how we are delivering those programs and to find better more efficient ways to do what the state mandates of us.
How would you characterize the business climate in Dakota County? What, if anything, would you do to change it?
Businesses are attracted to Dakota County due to our status as the lowest taxed county in the metro and our easy access to critical highways and transportation. We need a commissioner with a proven record of opposing tax hikes and new regulations. I have a strong record of doing just that. My opponent however voted for a large number of tax hikes and even authored one of the largest business tax increase proposals that comes with a boatload of regulations. We simply cannot afford to go that direction.
What is the role of the Board of Commissioners in fostering increased minority- and women-owned businesses in Dakota County?
With a diverse population, Dakota County needs to help cultivate minority and women-owned businesses. They are fully capable of competing for business, but sometimes all they need is a little assistance navigating the process of doing business with the county. We can help by reducing barriers to entry to doing business with the county.
Many communities and government entities in the East Metro collaborate to provide services to their residents in an effort operate more efficiently and cost effectively. Do you believe that Dakota County uses such partnerships appropriately, and can you identify any specific areas where more sharing of services should be used?
There has been a trend toward shared services between various local units of government, particularly when the volume of services indicates that no one entity can efficiently provide the services on their own. We do this in Dakota County with our 911 services. We should examine other areas where we can do this, particularly as we enter an era of tight budgets.
In your view, what is Dakota County’s top transportation priority and how would you advance it?
There are many different transportation needs in a large and diverse county like Dakota County. I think before we start naming specific projects, we need to listen to the needs of the business community and citizens and identify gaps in our current transportation infrastructure.
What further policies can Dakota County adopt to help the business community recover from the COVID-19 pandemic?
The county needs a robust public health response that supports business’s response to COVID-19 by providing technical assistance to help employers keep their employees healthy by procedures to help avoid new infections and leveraging resources from the federal government to help prevent new hot spots. Using CARES funding to help provide PPE and employee screening can help keep businesses open and keep our citizens productively employed.
Is there anything else you would like to share with voters not covered above?
I am a proactive leader and advocate who cares about people. I have a strong record of opposing tax hikes and of streamlining regulations. I bring budgeting skills honed through my years in mortgage business. I actively seek to make government responsive to the needs of people. My experience being a State Representative is a perfect fit to be your County Commissioner. In these uncertain times, we need a common sense leader who will work wisely and efficiently to keep Dakota County a great place to live, work and enjoy the outdoors. I would be honored to serve you on the Dakota County Board.
Public Office Sought: Dakota County Commissioner - District 3
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 651-688-9461
Website: Dianeforcc.org
Twitter Handle:
Facebook Page: @DianeForCC
Candidate Bio
Diane Anderson is married and has two adult sons. She has been an Eagan homeowner for 31 years. Diane has a B.S. in Housing, from the University of Minnesota.
Diane is a former small business owner and mediator. Diane worked in Mortgage business for twelve years. Diane has also been a volunteer advocate at state legislature for 29 years, working with both parties to draft and pass legislation. Diane has long-standing relationships with state legislators from both parties and a proven ability to work effectively with all political affiliations. Diane served on several state task forces and a Supreme Court Task Force.
Diane served as State Representative. Served on: Health and Human Services Finance, Commerce & Regulatory Reform, and Judiciary Policy & Finance
As a State Representative, Diane gained knowledge and experience regarding community services programs, health care, mental illness, group homes and homelessness. She worked on obtaining funding for mental health issues and homelessness. Whenever possible we should prevent homelessness.
While in office, Diane helped pass a major package of tax reforms to improve job growth, including an end to the statewide business property tax, reduced regulations, and streamlined the business permit process, to help small businesses.
Why are you running for this seat?
As a former state legislator, I know that government must work hard to keep taxes low, avoid new regulations and unfunded mandates on business in order to have a thriving jobs market. I have a demonstrated track record as a strong, proactive leader, and advocate. I care about people and making sure government is responsive to their concerns. I care about what is happening to our economy and empathize with the people who are unemployed. I have experience as a State Representative and knowledge of community services programs. I will strive to bring transparency to the County Board meetings so you will know how your dollars are being spent. Dakota County needs to remain a great and affordable place to live, work and play.
What is the biggest challenge facing your district and how would you address it?
The biggest challenge is the need to mitigate the impacts of the COVID-19 virus on our economy, jobs, businesses and the elderly. This will require wise and efficient leadership. The public is fearful of the virus, but our businesses need sound information so they can react properly to help keep their businesses open and their employees employed.
My experience working on the Health & Human Services Committee in the State House and working on mental health issues will help in working with our county public health staff to make sure we find the balance in fighting the virus and keeping businesses and the economy open.
I understand that many business owners are facing an unprecedented challenge to their livelihoods and for many their life savings that they have invested in their businesses. It is key that we support them by using CARES Act money for the Dakota County Small Business Relief Program. The best way to support employers and jobs is focus our resources on keeping the ones we already have.
People are experiencing mental illness and anxiety due to the stresses brought about by the pandemic and government’s reaction to it. There is a growing problem with people committing suicide as citizens become isolated or lose their jobs or business.
In these uncertain times, we need a leader who will make sure the county continues to deliver the more than 200 services to the residents of Dakota County. I want to ensure the successful delivery of services with wise spending of your tax dollars. As we approach probable budget shortfalls, we need to find effective ways to continue the services and not shut them down.
The largest percentage of deaths has been with the elderly. I want to make sure we keep people safe and protect the safety of our seniors by stopping the spread of the COVID-19 virus in the nursing homes and long term care facilities.
What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing Dakota County as a whole and how would you address it?
The biggest challenge facing the Dakota County board is how to estimate the impact of the COVID-19 virus on the county budget regarding income from property taxes and increases in expenses relating to the virus. It is unknown what the effects to the Dakota County budget will be due to the COVID-19 virus. It is unknown how much revenue will be lost due to the closure of businesses and a reduction in property tax revenues from commercial properties and apartments. It is unknown how much the tax base is going to change in the future. It is unknown how many people will continue to experience unemployment and will be forced out of where they live. Many people may continue to work from home so there will be less usage of commercial properties. There will at the same time be a higher demand for county services. It is unknown how much money Dakota County will receive in additional funding from the state and federal government to help pay for expenses related to the virus. We need to make sure we are not over spending and do not increase the tax levy.
The Dakota County board also needs to improve public access to the county board meetings and provide more transparency. As your County Commissioner, I will ensure government is responsive to the citizens in Dakota County. You can count on me to fight for you and our common concerns. I value your input and will listen to your issues.
What would be your top three priorities if elected to the Dakota County Board of Commissioners?
- Improve the economy, with business growth and increased job opportunities. The shutting down of businesses, large and small, is harming people. Voters need to look at the track record of the candidates and see whether they focused on tax reductions or voted for tax increases for businesses. They also need to consider whether they supported cutting regulations or sponsored new taxes and regulatory mandates on our employers. New taxes and regulations are a big impediment to business growth and are particularly destructive to both in a time of great crisis like we are in. We need to provide a favorable business climate so businesses will start up and move to Dakota County.
- Provide safety for our citizens. With rioting and lawlessness on the rise in the metro area, we need to provide strong support to law enforcement. It is not just the core cities who have seen problems, but Eagan has seen vandalism and some of our businesses have been threatened and have had to board up. One of the first priorities of local government is to support law enforcement so that they can protect all of us from those who choose violence.
- Housing issues. Homelessness and affordable housing are concerns I share with many of you, and it is time to act, not just talk about this crisis. I bring experience and will work tenaciously to improve our housing needs. Homelessness prevention is less disruptive to a family and community. When homelessness occurs we must ensure that it is brief and that people who experience it reintegrate quickly back into the community. I will work to accommodate housing for seniors, opportunities for those who are homeless and have an adequate supply of workforce housing. Clean water and a healthy environment are essential for our quality of life and that is why protecting our environment will always be a priority. I will make sure we have quality parks and a healthy environment.
Should county government be actively involved in attracting and retaining jobs? Why or why not? If yes, please describe the role for the county in this process.
Yes. There are many benefits that thriving and growing businesses bring to Dakota County to help provide a strong community. County government can best help attract new businesses and retain our current businesses and jobs by keeping taxes low on commercial property. We have attractive parks and trails as well as a strong library system that help attract business interests. We should not however raise property taxes just to give tax breaks to new businesses and have government pick winners and losers.
We need to ensure our next commissioner does not come with the attitude that business can just absorb new taxes and regulations. I have a record of opposing both. At the same time it is important to marshal current resources to help provide workforce housing so that employers will have a pool of job candidates who can afford to live in the immediate area. Dakota County can also make sure we have an efficient highway system with the best roads and infrastructure for our business transportation needs.
What role should county government play in economic development, and how should the county work with partner organizations?
Dakota County needs to continue its status as the metro county with the lowest property taxes per capita. The county should continue to partner with state agencies and local governments to attract new business and more importantly to remove impediments to the growth of existing businesses. It is important to work together on our transit needs to provide improvements in our road and bridge infrastructure which are also an important part of our economic growth. It is important for the county to work with the cities, state, and federal government to make sure there is not duplication of services to keep expenses down. I work well with state and local officials. My long-standing relationships with state legislators from both parties and ability to work effectively with all political affiliations will be a valuable asset.
What do you believe are the most essential services provided by county government?
There are many essential services that the county provides. At this critical time the county should focus on public safety and public health issues. Maintaining the county parks and trails, providing an efficient transportation system, and workforce housing are also high priorities. It is essential for the county to maintain a high quality of life.
Are there any services that the county does not provide that you believe it should?
No. At this critical time when revenues are shrinking and expenses are growing, I think we need to focus on current programs and priorities. Ensuring our public health response to the Covid-19 virus and public safety needs to be our priorities.
Are there any services currently provided by the county that you believe should be cut back or eliminated?
I think was we enter into the new budget planning cycle we will need to thoughtfully consider all of our spending. That said, much of what the county does is to administer programs funded and mandated by the state. It is always good to reexamine how we are delivering those programs and to find better more efficient ways to do what the state mandates of us.
How would you characterize the business climate in Dakota County? What, if anything, would you do to change it?
Businesses are attracted to Dakota County due to our status as the lowest taxed county in the metro and our easy access to critical highways and transportation. We need a commissioner with a proven record of opposing tax hikes and new regulations. I have a strong record of doing just that. My opponent however voted for a large number of tax hikes and even authored one of the largest business tax increase proposals that comes with a boatload of regulations. We simply cannot afford to go that direction.
What is the role of the Board of Commissioners in fostering increased minority- and women-owned businesses in Dakota County?
With a diverse population, Dakota County needs to help cultivate minority and women-owned businesses. They are fully capable of competing for business, but sometimes all they need is a little assistance navigating the process of doing business with the county. We can help by reducing barriers to entry to doing business with the county.
Many communities and government entities in the East Metro collaborate to provide services to their residents in an effort operate more efficiently and cost effectively. Do you believe that Dakota County uses such partnerships appropriately, and can you identify any specific areas where more sharing of services should be used?
There has been a trend toward shared services between various local units of government, particularly when the volume of services indicates that no one entity can efficiently provide the services on their own. We do this in Dakota County with our 911 services. We should examine other areas where we can do this, particularly as we enter an era of tight budgets.
In your view, what is Dakota County’s top transportation priority and how would you advance it?
There are many different transportation needs in a large and diverse county like Dakota County. I think before we start naming specific projects, we need to listen to the needs of the business community and citizens and identify gaps in our current transportation infrastructure.
What further policies can Dakota County adopt to help the business community recover from the COVID-19 pandemic?
The county needs a robust public health response that supports business’s response to COVID-19 by providing technical assistance to help employers keep their employees healthy by procedures to help avoid new infections and leveraging resources from the federal government to help prevent new hot spots. Using CARES funding to help provide PPE and employee screening can help keep businesses open and keep our citizens productively employed.
Is there anything else you would like to share with voters not covered above?
I am a proactive leader and advocate who cares about people. I have a strong record of opposing tax hikes and of streamlining regulations. I bring budgeting skills honed through my years in mortgage business. I actively seek to make government responsive to the needs of people. My experience being a State Representative is a perfect fit to be your County Commissioner. In these uncertain times, we need a common sense leader who will work wisely and efficiently to keep Dakota County a great place to live, work and enjoy the outdoors. I would be honored to serve you on the Dakota County Board.